Ditch mowing season begins in Saskatchewan

Jun 29, 2026 | 12:18 PM

A program created to improve road safety while offering feed for local producers is underway.

Farmers and ranchers can salvage hay in the ditches of Saskatchewan highways.

Landowners and lessees who own property nearest to a highway ditch have the first opportunity to cut or bale free hay until July 8. After that date, anyone can cut or bale without permission, provided the ditch is not already in the process of being mowed or harvested.

Highways Minister Kim Gartner said the mowing program is an important part of maintaining a safe and efficient highway system, while also supporting Saskatchewan producers.

“It helps improve visibility and safety for drivers, while providing a valuable feed source for local livestock operations,” Gartner said.

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The program has several key benefits including safer intersections and highway curves through maintained sight distances access, a neat appearance which improves visibility of signs and wildlife, better control of brush growth and noxious weeds, and improved snow storage in ditches, helping reduce snow drifting on highways during winter months.

Motorists are reminded to slow down, stay alert, and use caution when travelling near mowing equipment and farm vehicles operating near highways.

The Ministry of Highways delivers the program with assistance from contractors and works closely with rural municipalities. Approximately 45,300 hectares of highway ditches are expected to be mowed in 2026.

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alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com

by Alice McFarlane

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Ditch mowing season begins in Saskatchewan

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